Northwood Community Primary School receives positive Ofsted report

Northwood Community Primary School (With Designated Special Provision) in Kirkby has taken effective action to maintain the standards identified at the previous inspection (which was judged to be Good). The school was inspected on 14 and 15 January 2025 where Inspectors noted that:-

• Pupils speak very positively about their school and are proud to be part of the Northwood ‘family’.
• Pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), are incredibly happy in school.
• The school is aspirational for its pupils and they achieve well by the end of key stage 2. Pupils are prepared for the next stage of their education.
• The pupils who attend the specially resourced provision for pupils with SEND and the specialist language base receive an exceptional level of care so that they are able to thrive.
• Pupils enjoy the wide range of opportunities that are available to promote their personal development.
• The school has further refined the curriculum so that it is clear what crucial knowledge should be delivered and when this should be taught.
• The curriculum is ambitious for all, including for disadvantaged pupils and those with SEND.
• Staff deliver the content of the curriculum in a clear manner that engages and supports pupils’ learning. Pupils are encouraged to be active and collaborative learners. As a result, pupils achieve well in a range of subjects.
• The additional needs of pupils with SEND, including those pupils who attend the two specially resourced provisions, are identified quickly and accurately. Teachers make careful adaptations to the delivery of the curriculum to ensure that pupils with SEND learn successfully.
• Pupils who find learning difficult, or who need to catch up, are supported well to overcome gaps in their knowledge.
• Teachers deliver the phonics programme effectively.
• The school has appropriate systems and procedures in place to monitor, track and challenge poor school attendance.
• The personal development offer is carefully considered and effectively implemented. Pupils, including those with SEND, regularly take part in events in the local area, such as swimming, church visits and performing in the theatre.
• Governors are effective in supporting the improvements of the school. They maintain a clear focus on the quality of education and make decisions in the best interest of the pupils.
• Staff feel valued and appreciate the school’s commitment to their ongoing professional learning.
• The arrangements for safeguarding are effective.

Cllr David Lonergan, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, said: “I was delighted to read the latest Ofsted report for Northwood Community Primary School. It is clear that all pupils have an engaging curriculum and are supported to achieve. Pupils, staff, Governors at the wider school community should quite rightly feel incredibly proud of their achievements and the feedback from Ofsted Inspectors. Well done.”